From Urumqi: 12-Day Silk Road Adventure to Kashgar

Traveling along the Silk Road is like flipping through a living history book, and this 12-day tour from Urumqi to Kashgar promises to bring that history vividly to life. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, many travelers have praised it for its carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a landscape lover, or someone eager to experience authentic local culture, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of China’s western frontier.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances iconic sights with lesser-known treasures. The chance to explore ancient city ruins, like Jiaohe and Qiuci, alongside natural wonders such as Baisha Lake and the towering mountains of the Pamirs, makes for a varied and visually stunning journey. Plus, the inclusion of local highlights like the Karez Well System and the bustling Kashgar Old Town adds a real flavor of life in Xinjiang.

One point to consider is the length and pace of the trip. It involves a lot of ground covered over 12 days, with significant bus travel—sometimes across vast deserts or mountain roads. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a leisurely or slow-paced vacation, but it’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into the Silk Road region in a short time.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an immersive, well-organized, and culturally rich experience of northwest China. If you crave authentic sights, scenic landscapes, and expert guides, this trip will likely meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Through visits to ancient ruins, mosques, and local markets.
• Spectacular Scenery: Including lakes, desert landscapes, and mountain views.
• Expert Guides & Small Groups: Personal attention and insightful commentary.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering key Silk Road cities and hidden gems.
• Value for Money: All major site entries, transportation, and accommodations included.
• Active Travel: Significant walking and outdoor exploration, suited for energetic travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 12-Day Silk Road Route

Starting Point: Urumqi and First Impressions

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Urumqi Airport, where a guide will be waiting with a sign for “FunChinaTours.” From there, you transfer to your hotel, setting the stage for the adventures ahead. Urumqi itself isn’t part of the sightseeing, but it’s the perfect launching pad into the region’s vast landscapes and ancient sites.

Day 2: Into the Desert – Turpan’s Treasures

Traveling to Turpan, you’ll visit the Tuyugou Village in the late afternoon—a quiet spot where rural life continues much as it did centuries ago. You’ll also explore the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, where ancient murals hint at Buddhist influences that once flourished in this region.

A highlight here is the Flaming Mountain, famous for its fiery appearance at sunset. It’s an iconic sight, especially if you’re a fan of the classic Chinese tale “Journey to the West.” The views are dramatic, and the story behind the mountain adds a touch of legend to your photo collection.

Day 3: The Ancient City of Jiaohe

This day is dedicated to the Jiaohe ruins, a city built by digging down from on high rather than building up from the ground. The sprawling, fortress-like remains are a testament to how strategically important this city was on the Silk Road. We loved the way the ruins seem to blend into the landscape, with stone walls and pathways laid out across a floodplain, giving a real sense of walking through history.

Next, you’ll visit the Emin Minaret, an elegant 44-meter-high tower that stands as a symbol of Islamic architecture in Xinjiang. Afterwards, a tour of the Karez Well System provides insight into ancient irrigation methods, crucial for transforming this arid land into habitable territory.

You’ll then drive to Korla for an overnight stop, breaking up the long travel days and allowing some rest.

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Day 4-6: The Cultural and Religious Heart of Kuqa

Driving to Kuqa, the ancient Qiuci Kingdom comes alive through its Ruins of Subashi Ancient Temple and Kizilgaha Beacon Tower. These sites reveal the religious diversity and the strategic importance of Kuqa as a crossroads in the desert.

The Kezil Thousand-Buddha Caves and the Tianshan Grand Canyon showcase natural and spiritual artistry. The caves, with their thousand Buddhas carved into the cliffs, are a highlight for many travelers. The canyon, with its dramatic geology, offers spectacular views and opportunities for photos.

In Kuqa, the Grand Mosque and the Royal Palace highlight local Islamic culture and the city’s historical significance. We appreciated how guides explained the complex history behind these sites, making them more meaningful.

Day 7: Crossing the Taklimakan Desert

The drive across the Taklimakan Desert, often called the “Sea of Death,” is a true adventure. The vast, barren landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, with dunes and gravel plains that seem to go on forever. It’s a stark reminder of the harsh environment that early Silk Road travelers navigated.

Days 8-9: Khotan and the Ancient Trade Routes

In Khotan, the Museum introduces you to the region’s famed jade and silk, products that played a role in Silk Road commerce. The Yuetegan Ancient City provides a glimpse into the urban life of bygone eras, while the drive from Khotan to Kashgar offers breathtaking scenery along the Yarkant River and the mountains beyond.

In Yarkant County, you’ll visit the mausoleum of Amani Shah Khan—a peaceful monument to a notable regional prince—adding to your understanding of local history.

Days 10-11: The Heart of Kashgar

Kashgar’s Old Town is a maze of narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and traditional Uyghur architecture. Walking through the old city, you’ll feel transported back in time, especially when stopping at a centuries-old teahouse that locals swear by.

The Xinjiang’s largest mosque is impressive, and guides often share insights about the region’s religious practices and cultural diversity. In the afternoon, you’ll visit Handicrafts Street, where artisans sell textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs—perfect for picking up authentic keepsakes.

Driving along the China-Pakistan Highway to the Pamir brings you to some of the most extraordinary scenery: snow-capped peaks such as Muztag Ata and lakes like Baisha and Karakul. The views of towering mountains guarding this borderland are nothing short of spectacular.

Final Day: Farewell to Xinjiang

On your last day, your guide will escort you back to Urumqi Airport, reflecting on the journey through a landscape that has been a crossroads of culture and commerce for centuries. The memories of ancient ruins, sweeping deserts, and mountain vistas will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the ability to bring history and culture to life. One traveler noted, “The guides were incredibly informative, making every site meaningful.” Others appreciated the stunning scenery, especially at lakes and mountain views, describing them as “breathtaking.” Several reviewers also enjoyed trying local delicious food and tapas, which added to the authentic experience.

Some mention the long bus rides and the need for good comfort in transportation, but generally, the included private air-conditioned vehicles and small group sizes (limited to 15 participants) help keep travel comfortable and personal.

The Value of This Tour

At $3,870 per person, this might seem steep—until you break down what’s included. All the major site entries, hotel stays, transportation, and expert guides are wrapped into this price. With small groups and 24/7 support, it’s designed for travelers seeking a worry-free experience that covers a lot of ground with depth and authenticity.

It’s especially good for travelers who want a comprehensive Silk Road experience without the hassle of planning details themselves. The tour’s focus on authentic sites, local culture, and natural beauty offers a well-rounded journey into northwest China’s soul.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone interested in history, culture, and scenic landscapes, this tour offers a wide array of sights and experiences. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers who don’t mind walking a bit, or those eager to learn from knowledgeable guides. The focus on regional sites like Kashgar Old Town and the Taklimakan Desert makes it especially appealing to those seeking both cultural depth and visual drama.

However, be prepared for busy days and significant travel. It’s less suited for travelers with limited mobility or those preferring a slow-paced, relaxed holiday. If you want to see the Silk Road’s highlights and enjoy a well-organized trip with local insights, this adventure will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour involves a lot of walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers comfortable with active days. It’s not ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel stays, transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle, all site entries, guided commentary, and activities listed in the itinerary.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Travelers should budget for food, which offers a chance to try local dishes and tapas.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your camera—weather can vary, from hot days to cooler mountain air.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to the physical nature of some sites and transfers.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience and better guide interaction.

What language are guides speaking?
Guides provide commentary in English and Traditional Chinese, enriching the cultural context.

How is transportation arranged?
All travel is done by private, modern vehicles with large windows, making sightseeing comfortable and scenic.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s outdoor nature suggests avoiding the coldest winter months or hottest summer days for optimal comfort.

Final Thoughts

This 12-day Silk Road adventure offers a thoughtfully curated route through some of China’s most compelling destinations. It combines historical exploration, scenic landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters. The small group setting, expert guides, and inclusive pricing make it a great choice for travelers eager to see the region with confidence.

If you’re looking for an active, immersive journey that takes you beyond typical tourist spots and into the heart of Xinjiang’s diverse landscape and history, this tour will deliver plenty of memorable moments. Just be prepared for some long travel days and a fair amount of walking, but the reward is a genuine connection to the ancient Silk Road’s enduring legacy.

This tour is best for curious, energetic travelers who want an organized, in-depth look at northwest China’s cultural and natural wonders. It’s ideal if you value expert guidance, authentic sites, and scenic landscapes over free time or leisurely pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: